Population, when unchecked, increases in a geometrical ratio.
Thomas MalthusRead
In a state therefore of great equality and virtue, where pure and simple manners prevailed, the increase of the human species would evidently be much greater than any increase that has been hitherto known.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Malthus suggests that in an ideal society with equality and virtue, human population growth would be significantly healthier and more sustainable.
In this quote, Thomas Malthus reflects on the potential for humanity to thrive in a society marked by equality and virtue. He emphasizes that if society were to prioritize simple and pure manners, the natural increase in human population would be far greater than what has historically been observed. This notion reflects Malthus's belief in the impact of societal conditions on human growth and the overall human condition.
Themes
EqualityVirtuePopulationSocietyHuman Growth
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of equality in social progress.
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All quotes →The prodigious waste of human life occasioned by this perpetual struggle for room and food, was more than supplied by the mighty power of population, acting, in some degree, unshackled, from the constant habit of emigration.
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The rich, by unfair combinations, contribute frequently to prolong a season of distress among the poor.
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I think it will be found that experience, _x000D_ the true source and foundation of all knowledge, _x000D_ invariably confirms its truth.
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Population, when unchecked, increases in a geometrical ratio. Subsistence increases only in an arithmetical ratio. A slight acquaintance with numbers will shew the immensity of the first power in comparison of the second.
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